World of Warcraft Patch 11.1: Hunter Class Overhaul

Patch 11.1 of World of Warcraft introduces significant changes to the Hunter class, impacting pet management, specializations, and core abilities. These alterations, slated for a February release (pending PTR feedback), promise a revamped Hunter experience.

Pet System Revamp:

Hunters gain the ability to change pet specializations (Cunning, Ferocity, Tenacity) directly from the stable, offering unprecedented flexibility. Beast Mastery Hunters can now opt for a single, more powerful pet, while Marksmanship Hunters will no longer utilize pets, instead relying on a Spotting Eagle to enhance their damage output.

Undermine and the Liberation of Undermine Raid:

Patch 11.1 also introduces "Undermine," a new content update focusing on the Goblin underground capital. This expansion of the "War Within" storyline culminates in a raid against Chrome King Gallywix.

Hunter Specialization Changes:

• Beast Mastery: The "Solitary Companion" talent boosts a single pet's damage and size. Several abilities have received damage and resource cost adjustments.
• Marksmanship: A complete overhaul removes the pet, replacing it with a Spotting Eagle that marks targets for increased damage. New abilities like "Harrier's Cry" and "Manhunter" introduce unique tactical options. Numerous talents have been redesigned or removed to streamline gameplay.
• Survival: The choice between Butchery and Flanking Strike is now exclusive, simplifying the rotation. New talents like "Cull the Herd" and "Born to Kill" enhance bleed effects.

Pack Leader Talent Rework:

The Pack Leader talent is completely redesigned. "Howl of the Pack Leader" now summons a bear, wyvern, and boar, each with unique battlefield effects. Several new talents offer variations on this theme, providing strategic choices for Hunters.

PTR Testing and Player Feedback:

These changes will be available for testing on the PTR early next year. Blizzard strongly encourages Hunter players to provide feedback to shape the final implementation of these adjustments.

Detailed Class Changes (Summary):

The patch notes detail extensive changes to numerous Hunter abilities, talents, and PvP talents across all specializations. These include adjustments to damage, cooldowns, resource costs, and functionality. Many abilities have been redesigned or removed entirely. A comprehensive list is provided in the original document.